The Origin of Square Notation

Abstract

In this article the evolution of two French notations is presented: North-French and Aquitaine notations. On the basis of selected sources in a chronological order investigation of selected neumatic elements of these notations was conducted and at the final stage conclusions how evolved of the particular neumes was drawn. The evolutionary process of the musical scripture proved to be more distinct in the northern French notation. Step after step, the formation of the classic shapes of the square notation, can be observed with the characteristic junctures of elements (ligature). In the case of Aquitaine notation, one can speak only in a very limited manner of the graphical form evolution, because the important elements of this notation were modified only slightly in the course of tree hundred years. Thereby it is proven that the contemporary choral notation stems from the northern French form.